On this Saturday night, the Grizzlies fell short by 7 points in their attempt to steal a victory against the Los Angeles Lakers, bringing their record to 44-30.
However, the bright spot of the night was Ja Morant, who finally returned to action after missing six games in a row due to a hamstring injury.
As the playoffs approached, fans were worried about the team missing a star like Ja Morant. But now that he’s back, it’s bringing a wave of positive energy to the team. Morant himself shared how important his return was.
Ja Morant on how he felt being back on the court after a six-game absence due to a hamstring strain: pic.twitter.com/kfoybZv5Pl
— Bluff City Media Grizzlies (@bcmGrizzlies) March 30, 2025
After the game, he shared his thoughts, saying he was eager to get back on the court and test his body before the 2025 NBA Playoffs. Speaking to Damichael Cole of the *Commercial Appeal*, he admitted, “Obviously being out a stretch, for me, it be tough. I be wanting to be out there on the floor.”
He added, “Sometimes you just got to be smart about it. I don’t want too much stuff lingering when it comes time to lock in for good.”
Redick says stars like Ja Morant make comebacks perfectly timed against the Lakers
JJ Redick recently pointed out a strange trend—star players often seem to return from injuries just in time to play against the Lakers. He jokingly called it “Lakers Game Sudden Recovery Syndrome.”
JJ Redick was asked about opposing players going against the Lakers, with the expectation that Morant returns tonight. Earlier this season Redick had his analytics group look into it, finding that 86% of opposing team’s players have been available, which was No. 1 in the NBA.
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) March 29, 2025
He made this statement after Ja Morant’s unexpected return for the Grizzlies’ matchup against the Lakers. Redick highlighted that around 86% of opposing teams’ top-paid players have been available when facing the Lakers this season—the highest rate in the league.
Morant’s return felt like proof of this trend. He made an immediate impact, putting up 22 points, 8 rebounds, and 10 assists, helping his team in a big way.